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Commenters on the petition argue the new pub would increase noise pollution and could lead to increased levels of vandalism.

The author of the petition states: “I feel this is an unsuitable plan, if a Wetherspoons really must open in Dorking, I personally don't like the idea, I'm sure there are better locations they can apply for, given that they have no guilt pushing other small businesses out, they could potentially apply anywhere else in town.”

The owners of St Martin’s Walk have submitted a planning application to convert the existing shops into one pub with Mole Valley District Council.

If approved the huge venue, which would have seating for 230 people and be open all day, would take up all the units beyond Dorking Library, off St Martin’s Square.

There are plans to turn all the shops at the end of St Martin's Walk into a big pub, rumoured to be a Wetherspoon. (Image: Grant Melton)

It means Millets, and four local businesses - tattoo and piercing parlour Studio 33, Paint Your Own Ceramics with Calli’s Corner, Beatitudes charity project and popular café Burgundy & Black - would all have to go.

Debbie Pringle, who owns Calli’s Corner, says the move has left the future of her business uncertain.

She said: “Calli’s corner has been in Mole Valley for 17 years and we moved the studios to Dorking a year ago to expand so that we could paint our own ceramics as well.

“It’s quite frightening for us because it’s not good to feel so uncertain about the future especially when you’re trying to build a business.

Beer festival at Wetherspoon (Image: JD Wetherspoon)

“It’s obviously not ideal but it’s not unexpected because we were aware that they wanted to do something when we first started with them.

“We don’t know where we’re going to go next. We’re looking at different things and we just have to trust that the right thing is going to happen for us, but we’re definitely staying in Dorking.”

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Especially when other buildings, such as the Surrey Yeoman on the High Street, remain unoccupied.

Commenting on the petition Jackie Thomas said: “With three pubs closing on the High Street within the last year. Why not take over one of those rather than force small businesses to move.

“Also cannot see this working as The Malthouse struggled for years before closing.”

While commenter Gabrielle Rapson said: “This would spoil a quiet family orientated area and no doubt encourage anti-social behaviour which would spill out onto the park. We don't even have an on-site police station to cope with further alcohol related crime.

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“If the site is big enough for Wetherspoons then it is big enough for a decent shop, which is what Dorking needs.”

A spokesman for JD Wetherspoon was unable to give comment at this time.

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